ABOUT US
About Tunnel to Success
Tunnel to Success is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization rooted in the heart of Buffalo’s inner city, committed to empowering women and children through healing, growth, and opportunity.
Our mission is to prepare women and children to navigate life’s conflicts and challenges so they can face the future grounded in strong morals, values, and integrity. We provide a safe and supportive environment that offers mentorship, self-development classes, job-readiness support, and mental health referrals.
Tunnel to Success is a community-based program focused on serving at-risk children and women escaping domestic violence and overcoming substance addiction. Our work is centered on restoration, empowerment, and long-term transformation.
Elizabeth Ruise Rouse
Executive | Program Director
Our Core Values
Our organization is guided by the following core values:
Accountability • Diversity • Honesty • Humility • Integrity • Passion • Self-Improvement • Teamwork • Transparency • Trust • Vulnerability
We believe in being accountable to one another as we work collectively toward shared goals. Diversity is foundational to our mission—we never want anyone to feel unable to receive support because of their race, color, creed, gender, or background.
We value honesty, which fosters humility and integrity and allows us to serve with passion. We support each individual’s journey of self-improvement through transparency and vulnerability. Through collaboration and teamwork, we build trust and help individuals grow into healthier, stronger versions of themselves—creating a better tomorrow for our community.
What Makes Us Different
What sets Tunnel to Success apart is our focus on self-development workshops that encourage personal accountability and inner healing. Our programs help individuals look inward, build self-awareness, and take responsibility for their growth—rather than placing blame on circumstances or others. This approach promotes lasting change, empowerment, and personal transformation.
Our Story
Tunnel to Success was born out of personal experience and a journey of overcoming adversity. As a child, I witnessed my mother escape multiple abusive relationships. I also endured years of sexual abuse by a family member. Without the tools to process my emotions and trauma, I made many harmful decisions along the way.
As I grew older, I made a promise to myself: if I overcame the obstacles holding me back, I would give back to my community. Tunnel to Success exists to help others break free from their strongholds, embrace positive change, and experience joy, healing, and purpose on this side of heaven.
Get Involved
We are currently seeking partnerships, sponsorships, and donations to help expand our impact. If you are interested in supporting Tunnel to Success, please contact us:
📧 elizabeth@tunneltosuccess.org
📞 (716) 387-3423
Thank you for your support and contribution to our mission.